…to protect irreplaceable habitats for the community, wildlife and future generations.

Image of a woman in a black blazer with a white shirt in front of a green background

Welcoming our new Executive Director

Meet Rochelle Thomas

The Mianus River Gorge welcomed Rochelle Thomas as the new executive director on May 26th 2026.

Rochelle is a mission-driven conservation and nonprofit leader, with more than a decade of experience advancing conservation and land stewardship, fundraising, strategic planning, and community engagement…

News

Volunteer Spotlight – Meet Tom Pasqualini
Tom Pasqualini is a dedicated volunteer hunter who has participated in the deer management program (DMP) for over 12 years. Tom points out that the DMP is an important component of MRG’s work to keep the forest healthy. By keeping the herd in check, …

Upcoming Events

Invasive Species ID

Invasive Species ID

Mugwort, Mile-a-Minute, Phragmites, Garlic Mustard, Ailanthus, Bishops Weed, Winged Euonymus, Japanese Barberry, Oriental Bittersweet, Knotweed, Japanese Stiltgrass … learn to identify what’s invasive and what’s [...]

Click here for more events.

Research & Education

A Living Laboratory …

Mianus River Gorge was founded in 1953 by a group of conservationists and natural scientists who recognized the unique value of the old-growth hemlock forest and its tremendous biodiversity. The early founders protected the land as a living laboratory to develop sound land and watershed management strategies.

Land Management & Stewardship

As MRG acquires land to protect, a stewardship plan is devised to manage each parcel to either restore or maintain its health and function. As overbrowsing deer and invasive species have become major factors in the decline of native flora, MRG staff work to find effective solutions and share best practices.

Land Protection

The 22-mile Mianus River runs through the Mianus River Gorge Preserve and is part of a 42-square mile watershed, spanning five towns in two states. MRG protects the land that encompasses the Mianus River Watershed through acquisitions or gifts of land and managing conservation easements.